Katrina Harvey, Ashford University’s Outstanding Alum of the Month, always knew she was bound for bigger things in her career. As a grievance supervisor for a health care organization, she was happy to have a good job, but realized it was “just a job” and there was little room for advancement. Even though she was one of the most qualified and talented people on her team, she wasn’t getting ahead. When she was asked to train her superiors, Harvey knew she had to find a solution.

“Without higher education or a degree, I was unable to move further,” Harvey said at Ashford University’s 2016 spring commencement, where she crossed the stage to accept her master’s of arts in organizational management degree.

“I just wanted to put myself in a position to do the job that I want to do,” she explained. “I know that I am, by nature, a leader and I belong in a role where I can impact people.”

Online learning would present a new challenge for Harvey, one that made her anxious at first. Self-discipline and organization were critical, she said, especially following 14-hour workdays and a 90-minute commute to her home in Santa Cruz, California. Focusing on her goal kept her motivated, as did her daughter, Jordan.

“I let my daughter know that education is one of the most important things she could have in her life right now,” Harvey said. “Gone are the days when you’re able to get a good job without some formal education.”

Earning her organizational management degree, she added, gave her new perspective and skills that she was able to apply immediately to her current job. The degree also helped her develop ideas for the next phase of her life, when she plans to establish her own life-coaching business.

“I must say that this has been the most rewarding college experience,” Harvey said. “I feel like I truly got what I thought I was going to get from this program.”

Harvey’s advice for anyone in her position, hoping to break through a “glass ceiling” at work: look at the Ashford website, engage with alumni, and take a class.

“[College] is extremely valuable. Everything that I have learned thus far has been applicable. It has also challenged me. So challenge yourself. Take a class and see how it works out.”

About Ashford University

Where heritage meets innovation – that’s Ashford University. At Ashford, students discover relevant degree programs, innovative technology, and cherished tradition. Ashford offers associates, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs online, allowing students to balance life by providing the flexibility to do school work anywhere, anytime. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Marianne Perez, Media Relations Manager, at 858.513.9240 x11636.